PARIS (AP) — Perennial crowd favorite and former world No. 6-ranked Gael Monfils says he will retire at the end of the 2026 tennis season.

At 39, the French veteran renowned for his spectacular style of play announced Wednesday in a message posted on social media that "the year ahead will be my last as a professional tennis player.”

“I held a racket in my hands for the first time at two and a half, and began playing professionally at 18,” Monfils wrote. “The opportunity to turn my passion into a profession is a privilege I have cherished during every match and moment of my 21-year career. Though this game means the world to me, I am tremendously as peace with my decision."

Monfils has won 13 titles. His best results at Grand Slam tournaments are two semifinals, at the 2008 French Ope

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